1 Samuel Chapter 21

1 Samuel 21 Summary: Meaning, Themes & Reflection

Explore this passage of Scripture with its full text and meaning. Read these 15 Bible verses from 1 Samuel and discover their timeless wisdom.

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1. Then David came to Nob, to Ahimelech the priest. And when Ahimelech met David, he trembled and asked him, “Why are you alone? Why is no one with you?” 2. “The king has given me a mission,” David replied. “He told me no one is to know about the mission or charge. And I have directed my young men to meet me at a certain place. 3. Now then, what do you have on hand? Give me five loaves of bread, or whatever can be found.” 4. “There is no common bread on hand,” the priest replied, “but there is some consecrated bread—provided that the young men have kept themselves from women.” 5. David answered, “Women have indeed been kept from us, as is usual when I set out. And the equipment of the young men is holy, as it is even on common missions, and all the more at this time.” 6. So the priest gave him the consecrated bread, since there was no bread there but the Bread of the Presence, which had been removed from before the LORD and replaced with hot bread on the day it was taken away. 7. Now one of Saul’s servants was there that day, detained before the LORD. And his name was Doeg the Edomite, the chief shepherd for Saul. 8. Then David asked Ahimelech, “Is there not a spear or sword on hand here? For I have brought neither my sword nor my weapons with me, because the king’s business was urgent.” 9. The priest replied, “The sword of Goliath the Philistine, whom you killed in the Valley of Elah, is here; it is wrapped in a cloth behind the ephod. If you want, you may take it. For there is no other but this one.” And David said, “There is none like it; give it to me.” 10. That day David fled from Saul and went to Achish king of Gath. 11. But the servants of Achish said to him, “Is this not David, the king of the land? Did they not sing about him in their dances, saying: ‘Saul has slain his thousands, and David his tens of thousands’?” 12. Now David took these words to heart and was very much afraid of Achish the king of Gath. 13. So he changed his behavior before them and feigned madness in their hands; he scratched on the doors of the gate and let his saliva run down his beard. 14. Then Achish said to his servants, “Look, you can see that the man is insane! Why have you brought him to me? 15. Am I in need of madmen, that you have brought this man to rave in my presence? Must this man come into my house?”

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15 verses
1 Samuel 21:11 Samuel 21:21 Samuel 21:31 Samuel 21:41 Samuel 21:51 Samuel 21:61 Samuel 21:71 Samuel 21:81 Samuel 21:91 Samuel 21:101 Samuel 21:111 Samuel 21:121 Samuel 21:131 Samuel 21:141 Samuel 21:15

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Key Themes and Application

Background

This chapter of Scripture reveals important truths about God's character and His relationship with His people. The 15 Bible verses in this passage offer wisdom that applies to our daily lives.

Main Message

This passage contains timeless wisdom that speaks to believers across generations.

Life Application

  • Read these verses slowly and prayerfully, asking God to speak to you
  • Consider how this passage applies to your current circumstances
  • Journal about what God is teaching you through this Scripture
  • Share these insights with friends or in a small group setting

Reflection Questions

  • What stands out to you most in these 15 Bible verses?
  • How does this passage challenge or encourage you today?
  • What is God inviting you to do or believe through this Scripture?
  • Who in your life needs to hear the message of these verses?

About These 15 Bible Verses

Reading the Bible is more than just checking off a task on your list. When you open these 15 Bible verses from 1 Samuel, you are entering into a conversation with God that has spanned thousands of years.

This chapter of Scripture invites you to slow down and listen. The words on these pages have comforted, challenged, and guided countless believers throughout history. As you read this passage, remember that God speaks through His Word to meet you right where you are.

Many people find it helpful to read these verses multiple times. First, read to understand the overall message. Then read again to notice specific words or phrases that stand out. Finally, read once more asking God to show you how this Scripture applies to your life today.

Why Study This Passage?

For Personal Growth

These 15 Bible verses offer wisdom for your journey. As you meditate on this passage, God uses His Word to shape your character, deepen your faith, and guide your decisions.

For Group Study

This chapter provides rich material for discussion. Reading these Bible verses with others allows you to gain new perspectives and encourage one another in faith.

For Teaching and Preaching

Pastors and teachers find in this passage timeless truths to share. The themes in these verses speak to people of all ages and backgrounds.

For Prayer and Worship

Let these words become your prayer. As you read, turn the verses into conversations with God, thanking Him for His promises and seeking His guidance.

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